"When I received the second transfer, the first thing I did was enlist in all the things I wanted to do that would have served me then and also in the future. I bought 10 iron sheets and a chain link for a total of $180. My plan is to use them in the construction of a new house. However, I am yet to start building because there have been land demarcation issues, and I expect to move my house to a new portion soon. The current location will be occupied by another clan member, so I will need to relocate, but at least I am well-prepared with the materials. With part of the money, I made another investment in buying 5 goats for $200, which added to my existing herd, making it a total of 50 goats now. These goats have been a lifesaver during times when I don't have enough food. I often sell one to buy the food I need, especially since I live alone and am occasionally visited by my grandchildren. They have been a source of sustenance and security. The remaining amount from the cash transfer has been useful for my single family. I use it to replenish our food supplies and ensure we have enough to eat. It has been a blessing, and I am grateful for the support that has helped me secure my future and provide for my family's basic needs."

"In the coming year and beyond, I have some important goals I am determined to achieve. Firstly, I hope to connect piped water to our home and invest in a larger water tank that will allow us to store rainwater for various purposes, including livestock, household needs, and kitchen gardening. This will not only make our lives more convenient but also ensure a sustainable water supply. Additionally, if circumstances allow, I aspire to construct a pit latrine in the future. For far too long, our household hygiene has been compromised as we had to answer the call of nature in the bushes. This change would significantly improve our living conditions and overall well-being, making me hopeful for a healthier and more comfortable future for my family."

"We are genuinely grateful for the support we received from GiveDirectly, a program that truly stood out for its fairness and lack of bias. It was a unique experience, something we had never imagined before. While we had previously received small aids from government initiatives for the elderly and various NGOs, the freedom to receive and spend this money unconditionally was truly amazing. GiveDirectly's approach allowed us to address our most pressing needs with autonomy, providing a sense of dignity and hope for a brighter future that no other program had offered before."

"When I learned that GiveDirectly would be providing funds, I immediately recognized it as the most beneficial investment for my family and myself. Currently, my husband is hospitalized in Kabarnet, and I have taken on the responsibility of supporting myself and my two grandchildren, both of whom are attending school. My livelihood depends on farming and goat rearing, which makes ends meet. Given our circumstances, I made the decision to prioritize the purchase of essential foodstuffs worth $183. Additionally, I invested $90 in acquiring goats. Finally, I spent the remaining amount to purchase clothing and other household items, which had been out of reach due to financial constraints. I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude for the assistance, which has significantly improved our living conditions within a short period."

"My primary objective is to enhance my poultry business by expanding the number of hens and establishing connections with a reliable market that can purchase the hens in large quantities. This success will then enable me to invest in a dairy cow. By selling milk within the village, I anticipate that the income generated from these sales will greatly contribute to the well-being of my family. The progress I am making towards achieving financial stability, which I have long yearned for, fills me with immense joy. I am grateful for the strides I am taking, even though they may be gradual, as they are leading me closer to my goal."

"Upon receiving the transfer, my immediate priority was to pay my children's school fees, as it was the most pressing need at the time. The schools had reopened, but we still had outstanding fees to clear. I used $100 for this purpose. Following that, I spent $120 to purchase three goats, and $100 went towards my husband's medical treatment, as he is currently hospitalized. Finally, I used $100 to fence my land. Previously, accomplishing such tasks seemed unattainable for us, as our limited income was primarily allocated to essential expenses like food and school fees. I am married and earn a livelihood by selling firewood and poultry rearing. My family consists of my husband and our two grandchildren. All of these endeavours would have been impossible without the cash transfer. I am incredibly grateful for your support, as it has significantly improved our living conditions."

"Receiving the monetary assistance was undeniably a blessing, as I was well aware of the significant positive impact it would have on my life. In my old age, I am reliant on my children for support, as I no longer possess the energy to work on other people's farms. I currently live with my daughter and grandchild. When the transfer arrived, my immediate priority was to construct a latrine, as it was a necessity we had been lacking. Previously, we had no option but to relieve ourselves in the bushes. With this in mind, I spent $200 towards building a pit latrine and used the remaining amount to purchase essential foodstuffs. The joy and relief I feel knowing that I now have a proper place for personal hygiene cannot be overstated. This task was challenging before, particularly because our farm earnings barely covered our basic needs."

"I have a plan to construct an additional dwelling to accommodate my grown children, which will also serve the purpose of preserving my privacy. The current two-room house is insufficient and cannot adequately accommodate both my children and me. Furthermore, I am determined to save a sufficient amount of money to ensure that my daughter, who is currently in class eight, can smoothly transition to secondary school once she completes her national examination. It is difficult to express in words just how overjoyed I am with the support I have received through the transfers, as it has truly transformed my life for the better."

"I have a strong desire to acquire a new bed and mattress to improve the quality of my sleep. The current sisal twine bed I have is incredibly uncomfortable, and I believe that investing in a new bed and mattress will provide me with much-needed comfort. During the holidays, my grandchildren often come to visit me in the village. To ensure their comfort and convenience, I aspire to construct an additional room that can accommodate them during their visits. This will not only enhance their experience but also make their stay more enjoyable. I am filled with happiness and gratitude because the financial assistance I have received has proven to be invaluable, especially during the harsh period of intense drought in our village. It has truly made a significant difference in helping me meet my needs and overcome challenges posed by the drought."

"My daughter is currently in Class Eight at Ikanga Primary School. As the year comes to a close, she will be sitting for her end-of-term exams before transitioning to secondary school. I have great confidence in her abilities and believe she will excel in her exams, paving the way for her to move on to secondary education. To ensure a smooth transition, I am determined to save more money so that by the start of the next year, I will be able to enroll my daughter in a secondary school. The support I have received thus far has brought me immense happiness and has been instrumental in assisting me in achieving this goal for my daughter's education."